Canker sores are a common source of discomfort for children. While painful, these small oral lesions are generally harmless and typically resolve on their own. Understanding their causes can help in management.
Understanding Canker Sores
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, round, or oval-shaped sores that develop inside the mouth. They have a white or yellowish center surrounded by a red border. These ulcers commonly appear on movable tissues like the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or at the base of the gums. Unlike contagious cold sores, which are caused by a virus and appear outside the mouth, canker sores are not contagious.
Common Triggers in Children
Common factors can trigger canker sores in children. Minor injuries to the mouth lining are frequent culprits, occurring from accidental bites, vigorous tooth brushing, or irritation from dental work like braces. Children’s developing mouths are prone to such traumas.
Emotional or physical stress also contributes to canker sore development by potentially weakening the immune system. Increased pressure, such as school-related stress or new routines, can make children more susceptible. Certain foods are known triggers, including acidic fruits like citrus and tomatoes, spicy dishes, or sharp, abrasive snacks that can irritate oral tissues.
Nutritional deficiencies can play a role in recurrent canker sores. Low levels of iron, vitamin B12, folate, and zinc have been linked to their occurrence. A balanced diet rich in these nutrients may help reduce the frequency of sores.
Underlying Factors and Medical Conditions
While common triggers are often responsible, some children experience canker sores due to underlying factors or medical conditions. A genetic predisposition can increase a child’s likelihood, suggesting they may run in families. This genetic link might influence the body’s immune response.
Immune system issues or autoimmune conditions can also contribute to recurrent canker sores. For instance, they are more common in children with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition affecting gluten digestion. Some studies indicate that children with frequent canker sores may have undiagnosed celiac disease.
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are also associated with canker sores. In these cases, mouth sores can be an “extraintestinal” symptom, appearing outside the digestive tract but related to the underlying inflammatory process.
Relieving Discomfort and Prevention
Several strategies can help relieve discomfort for children with canker sores. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain. Topical anesthetics or gels applied directly to the sore may also provide temporary numbness.
Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water or baking soda dissolved in water can help soothe the sore and promote healing. Avoid acidic, spicy, or salty foods, as these can irritate the sore and increase pain. Opting for soft, bland foods and cold liquids can make eating and drinking more comfortable.
Preventive measures include maintaining good oral hygiene with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid mouth lining injury. Identifying and avoiding specific food triggers is helpful. Managing stress through healthy habits can also reduce the frequency of sores.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Most canker sores heal within one to two weeks, but professional medical advice is recommended in some situations. Consult a pediatrician or dentist if a canker sore is unusually large, extremely painful, or lasts longer than two to three weeks. New sores appearing before old ones heal, or frequent outbreaks, also warrant evaluation.
Seek medical attention if canker sores are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, difficulty eating or drinking, significant weight loss, skin rashes, or joint pain. These additional symptoms could indicate an underlying medical condition requiring diagnosis and treatment.